jk215

I did some more Googling and noticed that people are saying to burnish first then dye like Eaglestroker suggested. I have been doing the reverse but will try it out that way tonight.

Ive been practicing making belts and attempting to dye the edges a different color than the rest of belt. No matter how precise I am it seems like the dye runs unto the back or front of the leather enough that its noticeable. Any ideas on how to keep this from happening? Should I use some kind of tape to block off the area I dont want the dye to run onto? So far my process has been: bevel the edges, dye the edges and let dry, burnish and coat with leather balm. Any help is appreciated!

I came across this diagram that I have been using as reference for thread/overstitch settings..

Awesome information this is very helpful guys!

Im looking for English Bridle Leather, preferably backs. Ive been doing my research and come across a few websites (some were terribly uninformative) but so far it seems my best option is Wickett & Craig. Id prefer the steer and dyeing process to be done in the USA. Willing to pay the extra $ that may entail. I know this is a pretty old school industry and some places may not have websites. Any help is appreciated!

I finished my first project last night and came across a few problems. The biggest was my leather drying out and cracking as I made holes with my awl. After some research it seems I need to keep the leather well oiled and have some neatsfoot oil on the way. My question is what exactly is the process for applying oil? Im assuming it needs to be applied after dyeing but when else? Do I apply it before I even start doing anything? After finishing? How long should I let it set in before buffing? Any help is appreciated!

Thanks for the tips. I noticed after last night that dabbing a bit of beeswax every 3 or 4 holes helped the awl slide through a bit easier for me. Im going to pick up an extra beeswax block or chalkboard eraser to catch the awl on the other side. I have been just using pressure with my fingers per the hand sewing guide book and it gets a bit scary while stabbing the corner holes since I cant get a good grip. Id feel a lot safer not doing it that way.

Recently just started leatherworking and had a question regarding using a diamond awl on thick leather. For my first venture into leather I purchased some 3-4 oz. veg tanned and have been saddle stitching up a storm. For my next batch I want to buy 8-9 oz and start a real project. While Im not having too much trouble poking my holes on the 3-4 oz leather I cant help but imagine its going to be much tougher on 8-9 oz. Other than keeping the awl very sharp and using some beeswax to aid in the stabbing, does anyone have any tips on working with the thicker leather? I noticed in my guide to hand sewing book it says not to wiggle your hand because it creates a larger hole. Is it alright to keep the awl straight and twist to work into the hole? Or am I supposed to keep it directly straight and push right through?

Thanks for the info! I started with one of the Eco-flo water based dyes and the leather balm with atom wax. Really just wanted to get the hang of what I am doing. The dye dried pretty uniform and the leather balm looks nice too. I will definitley upgrade when I start doing real projects.

Obviously a noob question but Im going to be working on my first project tomorrow and not sure. Its 4-5oz veg tanned going to be saddle stitched.

Hello everyone. Ive been slowly gathering materials to begin learning Leathercraft and have a question about what dyes and finishes to purchase for what I will be working on. Basically I just want to get the hang of everything and will be making small pouches and a wallet. I know I want to to dye it brown. How do I know what kind of finish to purchase? Id prefer something to help with waterproofing and be a matte finish. Something to just preserve the natural look of the leather. Also, what should I look at for edge dressing? Im going to be shopping on the Tandy website if that makes any difference. Thanks for any help!